More than 70 years helping preserve a much loved railway wins John an MBE
One of the first volunteers at a heritage railway, was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to railway preservation.
For more than 70 years, John Bate has made a significant impact in transforming the Talyllyn railway from nearly derelict to a major tourist attraction in Mid Wales.
A skilled engineer, his leadership, encouragement and ingenuity have inspired generations of employees and volunteers alike.
John first rode on the railway in 1947 and eagerly joined up when Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society took it over in 1951, becoming the world’s first preserved railway.
He gave up his summer holidays that year to work on the barely functional track. In 1957, when a major landslip threatened the line’s future, John led an army of volunteers to rebuild it.
